FAQ
+ How can I learn more about the church?
If you would like to learn more about First Pres. of Watertown, please be sure to fill out the newcomers card, which is located in the pew. Once it is filled out, feel free to place it in the offering plate as that is passed during worship. Also, please feel free to reach out to our pastor via email or phone.
+ What are your services like?
At First Pres. of Watertown, our services typically have three main components: worship, preaching of the Word, and prayer. There is an explanation of the basic structure here and the most recent bulletin on our Livestream page. Most Sundays we have traditional music including our chancel choir, organ and piano. On others you might hear a brass quintet, a string trio, a bagpipe, flute or one of our handbell choirs. We encourage people to come as they are and our services usually last an hour or a little more.
+ If it's my first time here, what should I expect?
You should expect to be greated warmly. Most congregation members are willing to answer any questions you have before our service begins or afterwards during our fellowship hour. Ushers are available to show you around the Sanctuary, point out the restrooms, lead you to child care, and make introductions to other members. After the service, you can request a tour of the building.
First Presbyterian Watertown would like you to have the opportunity to focus on God, pray, and learn about God without the need of any special skills as you worship with us. Hopefully, you'll meet some wonderful folks who will be happy to see you...all in all, not a bad day.
+ Will I have to say anything, sign anything, or be singled out when I come to church for the first time?
No, you won't have to do any of those things. We do ask for contact information, but it is up to you whether you wish to share. There are cards in the pews to fill out and place in the offering plate to do so. There will be ushers and other people to greet you before and after church. Our hope is that you will feel welcome and want to make new friends.
+ What should I wear to church?
There isn't any written or unwritten dress code at First Presbyterian Church — please feel free to come as you are and receive the good word. We are church whose highest priority is to worship and serve God and to encourage others to do the same. People will be dressed from jeans and t-shirts to coats and ties to dresses. We want you to visit as yourself.
+ If I bring my children, what should I expect?
During the service, Busy Bags are available at the back of the Sanctuary with assorted activities to keep young minds occupied.
For children who are K - 7 we offer a Sunday School program that is taught by members of the church. Our program helps familiarize children with the Bible through arts, games, videos, and of course reading the Bible. The dedicated volunteers who help lead this program are supervised by our Child Protection Policy.
In addition, we have a fully staffed Nursery located in our Christian education building. Access this by using the handicapped entrance ramp off the parking lot. If you prefer to keep your infant with you and they become restless during the service, we have a baby room off our narthex. There you will find a rocking chair and a changing table, and a speaker so you can continue to hear the service.
+ What special worship services does First Presbyterian Church provide during the year?
We offer several special services during the year. Please see our Special Worship Service page for a full description.
+ Do I have to be a member of the church to attend worship services and receive communion?
No. Everyone is welcome to participate fully in our worship services and activities. We have what is often referred to as an "open table", which means that Communion is open to all who have faith in Jesus Christ.
The only exceptions are that one must be a member of the church in order to be elected as an officer (Elders and Deacons) or to vote in congregational meetings.
+ How do I become a member of the church?
A person can become a member in one of three ways.
- Transfer of Membership: we welcome Christians from other churches.
- Profession of Faith: answer a series of questions during a worship service that declare your faith in Jesus Christ.
- Confirmation: because we offer infant baptism, we have a process called Confirmation in which adolescents learn about the vows their parent(s) made on their behalf at their baptism.